Everything we Know About Apple’s Vision Pro Headset

Introduction

People have been anticipating Apple’s foray into virtual and augmented reality headsets, and their announcement at WWDC 2023 has created quite a stir.

The Vision Pro marks Apple‘s first foray into their visionOS device line-up, with preorders commencing on January 19th. This highly anticipated headset is designed to offer a mixed reality experience that encompasses both virtual and augmented reality.

Technical Specifications

The Vision Pro comes with a starting price of $3,499 and offers 256GB of internal storage. Additionally, optional prescription lenses from Zeiss are available. The headset is powered by two Apple Silicon chips, M2 Ultra and R1, and can operate for up to two hours with a tethered battery pack or extended usage when plugged in.

Featuring advanced natural control functionalities such as hand and eye tracking, as well as voice commands, the headset promises an immersive user experience.

Availability and Ordering

The preorder window for the Vision Pro begins on January 19th, and the device is set to start shipping on February 2nd in the United States. An array of accessories and additional options, such as optical inserts from Zeiss, are available for an extra charge.

Prescription Lenses

For individuals requiring vision-correcting lenses, the provision for optical inserts from Zeiss is a welcome addition. These lenses are priced at $99 for readers and $149 for prescription lenses, available exclusively online. It is important to note that a valid prescription is mandatory for purchase.

Enhanced Features

In the pursuit of elevating user experience, the Vision Pro offers the ability to seamlessly transition between AR and VR environments. Notably, the headset incorporates a feature that displays the user’s eyes on the front depending on the content being viewed, an aspect that enhances the social aspect of the device.

Future Software Updates

Apple’s visionOS, the operating system for the headset, is set to undergo continued development with upcoming iterations, aligning with the release of Mac and iPhone software updates in 2024. This update will enable iPhone 15 Pro to capture 3D spatial videos directly compatible with the headset.

Reception and Expectations

The Vision Pro has garnered significant attention from tech enthusiasts and developers, with insights indicating promising use cases and an expectation for a robust app ecosystem at launch to solidify its appeal to consumers.

industry Insights and Influences

Apple‘s innovative approach to displaying the user’s viewpoint externally, detailed in a patent, reflects intriguing influences on the final design of the headset. Furthermore, the adoption of Micro OLED technology holds the promise of refined future iterations.

Anticipated Product Line Expansion

Rumors suggest that Apple is poised to introduce an affordable follow-up version of the Vision Pro, set to omit the external display functionality. This potential expansion seeks to diversify the product line and cater to a wider audience.

Challenges & Solutions

Nevertheless, queries remain about sharing content with non-headset users and providing customized factory units for individuals with impaired vision. The introduction of Features such as mirroring content and sharing via AirPlay or FaceTime may address this concern.

Market Projections

Industry analysts project a conservative shipment estimate for the Vision Pro, signaling a cautious approach from Apple. Furthermore, the company’s efforts to establish a robust supply chain for specialized Micro OLED screens serves as an indicator of long-term planning.

Conclusion

The introduction of Apple‘s Vision Pro headset marks a significant leap in the realm of mixed reality experiences. With its advanced features, seamless transitions between AR and VR, and promising app ecosystem, the Vision Pro has the potential to redefine immersive technology experiences.

While challenges and future iterations await, Apple‘s Vision Pro presents a compelling vision of the future of mixed reality devices.

Source: theverge